Salt

It has long been known that dietary salt, or more specifically sodium chloride (NaCl), is an important effector of blood pressure regulation. Information on salt effect is continually evolving. The influence of dietary salt on blood pressure appears to be genetically controlled, and people can be more sensitive or less sensitive to the effects of salt. Even so, high salt consumption is considered to be a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke. If you are older than 50 years, male, African American, or hypertensive, the influence of dietary salt content is even more important.

Significant reductions in consumption of salt and sodium in food have been recommended by a number of expert organizations, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Institute of Medicine, American Heart ...